Cornell, known for his powerful vocals, showed no signs of any ill health as the group performed some of their best-loved songs, including Outshined and Black Hole Sun, for what would prove to be the final time.

Shortly before the gig, Cornell also tweeted a photo outside the venue along with the caption "Detroit finally back to Rock City!!!".

Fans of Soundgarden have described their shock at the news of Cornell's death, as well as the fact they were able to watch his final ever performance.

Instagram user Jim Corll said: "I still can't believe it. Amazing show by Soundgarden last night in Detroit. Today, Chris Cornell is gone." A second, mr_jonah, added: "Wow, after watching the show last night In Detroit I had no idea it would be his last."

Cornell's spokesperson, Brian Bumbery, confirmed the singer died on Wednesday (17 May) night in Detroit and his family are shocked at the news.

Known to have struggled with drugs and alcohol, Cornell was said to have been sober since 2003.

Cornwell was also part the Seattle supergroup Temple of the Dog, which also had members of Pearly Jam and Mother Love Bone. As a solo artist, he also recorded You Know My Name, the theme tune to the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royal.

Chris Cornell of Soundgarden performs during their concert in Toronto July 2, 2011.REUTERS/Mark Blinch